Newly released bodycam footage shows moments of Tiger Woods being arrested after failing a field sobriety test and falling asleep in a cop car.
Background of Incident:
A report from the Martin County, Florida Sheriff’s Office states that the accident unfolded on March 27, 2026, around 2 p.m. EST, when Woods attempted to pass a truck in front of him that had slowed to turn into a driveway, according to the affidavit obtained by The Exclusive Press. Woods crossed over the double solid line into oncoming traffic. While attempting to pass the truck, his vehicle struck the front right bumper/fender and the rear left fender of the truck’s trailer, causing his SUV to tip onto its side, authorities said.
The driver, identified as Jeromy Bullard, told authorities that the golfer, whose real name is Eldrick Tont Woods, was unable to exit the vehicle because it had landed on the driver’s side. Bullard climbed to the front passenger side to help him exit safely.
Scenes from the car crash and Tiger Woods’ arrest; Photo Credit: Reuters and Martin County Sheriff’s Office
After authorities arrived on the scene, Woods told deputies he had been looking down at his phone and changing the radio station, not realizing the truck in front of him had slowed, according to the affidavit.
At the scene, an officer noticed the five-time Masters champion was sweating profusely in the back of the patrol vehicle despite cool air flowing. He was also limping and stumbling to the right due to a leg injury. Woods told the officer he had undergone seven back surgeries and more than twenty leg operations and could not perform the walking and lifting tasks required for the sobriety test due to his limp and ankle seizing while walking.
Due to Woods’ physical injuries, he was instructed to sit on the push bumper of the patrol vehicle for the remainder of the investigation, according to the affidavit.
According to the affidavit, an officer noted that the 50-year-old’s eyes were “bloodshot and glassy,” with “extremely dilated” pupils after removing his sunglasses. His movements were lethargic, but he was also extremely alert and talkative, according to the report.
A breathalyzer test showed no alcohol in his system. No injuries were reported, and both drivers initially refused transport to the hospital.
Woods was arrested after failing a DUI evaluation and being deemed unable to safely operate a motor vehicle. He was charged with Driving Under the Influence with Property Damage and transported to the Martin County Jail.
While in the DUI room, Woods refused to take a urine test on several occasions, which is used to detect drugs, and was also charged with refusal to submit to a BAL test.
Despite initially declining medical treatment, he was later sent to Cleveland Clinic ER South at the request of medical staff for a medical clearance. While there, he again refused treatment and was sent back to the Martin County Jail.
In addition, two hydrocodone pills were found in Woods’ pants pocket, the affidavit states.
Hydrocodone is a prescription medication intended to relieve severe pain. It works by changing how the brain and nervous system respond to pain, according to MedlinePlus. Increased sweating is a known side effect of the medication. Woods was sweating while in the police car, but there is no confirmation in the affidavit that this was directly caused by the medication. Woods was released on a $1,150 bond on March 28, 2026.
On March 31st, Woods announced that he is stepping away from golf for an indefinite period to focus on seeking treatment and improving his health following his arrest.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said in a statement. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones, and myself at this time,” Woods added.
The PGA Tour CEO, Brian Rolapp, released a statement supporting Woods’ decision.
“Tiger Woods is one of the most influential figures the sports world has ever known,” Rolapp wrote.
“Over the last year, I have come to deeply appreciate Tiger not only for his impact on the game, but for his friendship and the perspective he has shared with me as I joined the golf industry. My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support.”
On April 1st, a Martin County judge granted Woods permission to travel out of the country to begin “comprehensive inpatient treatment,” court records show. Woods has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is working with attorney Douglas Duncan, who noted in a filed motion that Woods requires an individualized program, “continuous monitoring,” a “highly controlled environment,” and privacy during this process.
With Woods taking an extended period away from golf, he will not participate in the Masters Tournament, which begins April 9th.
